The first day of school for college students is fast approaching, and although it’s an exciting time, we haven’t forgotten about those first-day jitters, even for parents. To help alleviate some stress, here are a few tips for weathering the storm, otherwise known as move-in day. Whether it’s a dusty dorm room or a brand-new apartment, this advice applies.
Have Meaningful Conversations
The key to a successful first year of college is to have meaningful conversations with your child before they’re out and off on their own. For many students, college may be the first time they’re living away from home, attending parties, and in general, experiencing a bit more “freedom” than they’re used to. That’s why it’s important to remind them to always make smart decisions, keep in touch, and let them know that you’re just a phone call away – and yes, even at 2 A.M.
Set Some Ground Rules
Some of the rules you previously set at home might be hard to enforce while they’re not living under your roof. You may want to have a conversation to set a few ground rules for college-living. For example, if you’re providing them with an allowance, you should discuss a weekly budget and what the money can be spent on. If your child is the independent type, setting up a regular check-in until they get settled in isn’t a bad idea either.
Sort Out Your Accounts
Up until this point, you may have had your child linked to various accounts, such as ridesharing and food delivery. Before you send them off, it’s important to decide if you want to keep supporting them on those platforms or have them make accounts of their own.
Take Inventory
For most students, the next four years of their life will be spent sharing a living space with other students. It’s easier than you may think for belongings to get lost, mixed up, or even stolen. So, while your child is packing at home, make an inventory list of anything important they’re bringing. This way, when you return in the spring to move them out, you know exactly what should be coming home with you.
Plan Your Time
While you may think unpacking a few suitcases and setting up the bed won’t take very long, try to block out a full day for moving in. Unloading the car, cleaning, unpacking, hanging décor and curtains, and making last-minute trips to the store take up more time than you may imagine. Not to mention, putting together all of the new furniture you bought for them could take half the day!
Bring Your Own Supplies
Most colleges and rental agencies will claim that the room or apartment you’re about to move your child into has been deep cleaned over the summer and is move-in ready. This is not always the case. Coming prepared with cleaning supplies will save you an extra trip to the store to buy products you already have at home.
Document the Space
Universities and landlords know things are bound to get damaged with teenagers — especially those getting their first taste of freedom — living in their space. For this reason, it’s important to document the current state of the space when you first arrive, to ensure you aren’t wrongly charged for any damages upon move-out day.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Many insurance companies offer discounts for students with good grades, so remember to review your coverage options before they head off. Learn more about auto insurance and renters insurance for students at college.
When all is said and done, what matters most is that you enjoy your last few moments with your child before heading home. Everything will work itself out, so try to take a deep breath, and be slightly more composed than your teen (at least on the outside).
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